Water molecules stick to other water molecules. This property is called
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is cohesion.
Cohesion refers to the ability of water molecules to stick to each other due to hydrogen bonding. Water molecules are polar, meaning they have a slight positive charge on one end (the hydrogen atoms) and a slight negative charge on the other end (the oxygen atom). This polarity allows water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with one another, which are weak interactions but play a significant role in the properties of water.
The hydrogen bonds form because the hydrogen atoms of one water molecule are attracted to the oxygen atom of another water molecule. These bonds cause water molecules to “stick” together, which is why water has a high surface tension. Surface tension is the resistance of a liquid to external forces, and in the case of water, it’s evident when small amounts of water form droplets on surfaces instead of spreading out. This is an example of cohesion in action.
Cohesion is essential for several biological processes. For example, in plants, cohesion helps in the process of transpiration, where water is pulled up from the roots through the stems to the leaves. The cohesion between water molecules allows for the continuous column of water to be maintained as it moves upward against gravity. This is critical for the plant’s ability to transport nutrients and maintain hydration.
Cohesion also plays a key role in regulating the temperature of water. Due to hydrogen bonding, water has a high heat capacity, meaning it can absorb a large amount of heat before its temperature rises significantly. This property helps organisms living in aquatic environments maintain a stable internal temperature, which is crucial for survival.
In summary, cohesion is the force that keeps water molecules together through hydrogen bonds, and it is responsible for many of water’s unique and vital properties.